By Oleg David Isakov
BBQ&A, aside from the amazing food, was a great opportunity to ask questions on Judaism and Jewish life and engage in a critical discussion with Rabbi Zevi, Miriam and the students. Rabbi Zevi's house provided an open space and un-dogmatic atmosphere for this important sake, where we all questions were welcomed, not judged, and taken seriously.
As students we are naturally more interested in dealing with Judaism in a critical, discursive way. Critical in my opinion does not mean discarding religion, but rather trying to gain a deeper understanding by challenging it. Therefore, I felt that our critical debates and questions led to a broader image and understanding of Jewish laws, tradition and viewpoints, hence, allowing everybody to make up their own minds. Only a personal understanding can create a strong, articulate and truthful identification with Judaism.
I think that everybody felt that we students are interested in learning more about Torah, and I hope that we use the BBQ&A as an incentive to study more, e.g. in weekly Parashot meetings, themed classes such as on marriage, science and other questions of interested. I am looking forward to the next BBQ&A, as well as all other events at UCI CHABAD!